Sudan: Security forces arrest dozens, disperse activists amid protests in and around Khartoum, other cities Nov. 7; further protests planned Nov. 8 /update 2

Event

Security forces arrested more than 100 people and forcibly dispersed demonstrators in and around Khartoum and in other Sudanese cities as pro-democracy activists, led by the Sudanese Professionals' Association (SPA) and local "resistance committees," launched a two-day period of nationwide strikes and protests Nov. 7. Notably, security forces used tear gas to disperse a sit-in protest comprised of teachers and other education workers at the Khartoum State education ministry building in Khartoum North. Police also used tear gas to forcibly disperse demonstrators in the capital's Burri neighborhood and in Omdurman's Ombada area. Additionally, hundreds of people participated in related protests in the cities of Atbara, Nyala, and Wad Madani Nov. 7.

Despite scattered protest activity around Khartoum and elsewhere in the country Nov. 7, several businesses remained open and many protester-erected barricades had been cleared in the capital. Similarly, the US Embassy in Khartoum issued a security alert Nov. 6 noting that while movement in and around Khartoum had improved and all bridges were open to traffic, military checkpoints remain in place and demonstrators continue to erect roadblocks in the capital area. The alert also advised US citizens to "shelter in place to the extent possible" and to consider the long-term sustainability of their living situation (e.g., access to food, fuel, banking, pharmaceutical drugs, reliable water and electricity supply, flights, etc.). Khartoum International Airport (KRT) was operational as of Nov. 7.

Anti-coup activists have announced a series of protests leading up to mass demonstrations Nov. 13. Related protests are likely in major urban areas over the coming days, including in and around Khartoum and Omdurman, and especially near key government buildings, military installations, and critical infrastructure. However, activist participation in the protests will likely be complicated by persistent phone and internet service outages that have affected Sudan since the Oct. 25 coup. Phone networks are reportedly providing intermittent service, while internet service remained almost completely disrupted in Sudan as of Nov. 7.

In general, insecurity is likely to persist across Sudan through at least mid-November, manifesting in regular anti-government demonstrations in Khartoum and other major cities. Protesters are likely to gather near city centers, major government buildings, and along road routes. Counterprotests by supporters of the military are also likely. Clashes are almost certain at all related demonstrations, particularly if opposing groups gather in proximity. Related disruptions to intracity and intercity road travel, airports, border crossings, and business operations are also likely due to civil unrest or authorities' security-related operations. Shortages of basic goods and commodities will likely worsen in the coming days.

Context

Sudanese forces under the direction of Army Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan staged a coup Oct. 25, deposing Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok. Lt. Gen. al-Burhan subsequently declared a nationwide state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereignty Council of Sudan, which served as the transitional government of the country. Subsequent clashes between security forces and anti-coup protesters have left over a dozen people dead and dozens of others wounded. Al-Burhan has indicated that the military will form a nonpartisan administration that will remain in power until elections are held to elect a civilian government in July 2023. The military also announced Oct. 26 that trade unions and professional associations had been dissolved.

Advice

Consider deferring travel to Sudan until the current situation stabilizes. Persons in-country should consider sheltering in place; liaise with diplomatic representations and trusted contacts. Avoid all protests, travel at night, nonessential travel in public, and concentrations of security personnel. Refuel vehicles when safe to do so. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Carry identification to facilitate passage through checkpoints.